Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Savory Cheese Stuffed Banana Peppers Soup is a comforting, creative twist on classic stuffed peppers, transformed into a warm, creamy soup that is perfect for cozy meals. It delivers the mild heat and tang of banana peppers, the richness of melted cheese, and a hearty, satisfying texture in every spoonful. This soup feels indulgent without being overwhelming and is ideal for cooler days when you want something filling and flavorful.
What makes this recipe especially appealing is how it captures the essence of cheese-stuffed banana peppers without the extra work of stuffing and baking each pepper individually. I tested this soup with different cheese blends and found that a creamy base paired with sharp cheese creates the best balance. It works beautifully as a main course with crusty bread or as a starter for a larger meal. If you enjoy savory, slightly tangy flavors with comforting richness, this soup is one worth saving.
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Savory Cheese Stuffed Banana Peppers Soup – Creamy, Comforting, and Full of Flavor
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich, comforting soup inspired by cheese-stuffed banana peppers, combining tangy peppers, savory broth, and creamy melted cheese for a bold and cozy bowl.
Ingredients
- 4 banana peppers, seeded and diced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or basil (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion and sauté until soft and translucent.
- Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in diced banana peppers and cook for 2–3 minutes.
- Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in cream cheese until melted.
- Add heavy cream, mozzarella cheese, salt, pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes.
- Simmer gently, stirring often, until soup is creamy and smooth.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot.
Notes
- Blend partially for a smoother texture if desired.
- Serve with crusty bread or garlic toast.
- Add cooked sausage for a heartier version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Banana peppers
Banana peppers provide mild heat and tang. Sliced peppers soften as they cook, infusing the soup with signature flavor.
Ground beef or sausage
Ground meat adds heartiness and mirrors the filling of classic stuffed peppers.
Onion
Onion builds a savory flavor base and adds subtle sweetness.
Garlic
Garlic enhances depth and aroma without overpowering the peppers.
Cream cheese
Cream cheese creates a smooth, rich base and mimics the classic stuffed pepper filling.
Cheddar cheese
Cheddar adds sharpness and depth, melting into the soup for a creamy finish.
Chicken broth
Chicken broth forms the base of the soup and balances the richness of the cheese.
Milk or cream
Milk or cream helps loosen the soup and adds extra creaminess.
Italian seasoning
Italian seasoning adds herbaceous warmth that complements the peppers and cheese.
Salt
Salt enhances all the flavors and should be adjusted to taste.
Black pepper
Black pepper adds gentle heat and balance.
Olive oil
Olive oil is used for sautéing the aromatics and meat.
Directions
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant. Add the ground meat and cook until fully browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Season lightly with salt and black pepper.
Add the sliced banana peppers and Italian seasoning, stirring to combine. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cream cheese until fully melted and smooth. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until incorporated. Pour in the milk or cream and simmer gently until the soup reaches your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This recipe serves approximately 4 to 6 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 25 minutes. Total time required is roughly 40 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of broth or milk if the soup thickens too much.
Variations and Customizations
Savory Cheese Stuffed Banana Peppers Soup is easy to customize. For a spicier version, hot banana peppers or a pinch of red pepper flakes can be added. Using Italian sausage instead of ground beef adds extra seasoning and richness.
For a lighter version, reduced-fat cream cheese and milk can be used, though the soup will be slightly less rich. Adding cooked rice or small pasta transforms the soup into an even heartier meal. You can also stir in fresh herbs such as parsley or basil just before serving for added freshness.
If you prefer a vegetarian option, omit the meat and add sautéed mushrooms or white beans for texture and protein. These adjustments allow flexibility while keeping the soup comforting and flavorful.
FAQs
Are banana peppers very spicy?
They are mild, with gentle heat and tang.
Can I use pickled banana peppers?
Yes, but reduce added salt and adjust acidity.
What cheese works best?
Cheddar works well, but mozzarella or Monterey Jack can be added.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, it reheats very well.
How do I thicken the soup?
Simmer longer or add more cream cheese.
Can I freeze this soup?
Freezing is not recommended due to the creamy base.
Does this soup taste tangy?
Yes, lightly tangy from the banana peppers.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes, bell peppers or spinach work well.
Is this soup kid-friendly?
Yes, especially when using mild peppers.
What should I serve with this soup?
Crusty bread or garlic toast pairs perfectly.
Conclusion
Savory Cheese Stuffed Banana Peppers Soup is a comforting, flavorful dish that transforms a classic favorite into an easy, creamy soup. With mild heat, rich cheese, and hearty texture, it is perfect for cozy dinners and casual gatherings. Simple to prepare and easy to customize, this soup delivers bold comfort in every bowl.
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